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Bull Island (California) facts for kids

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Bull Island
Aerial image of an island.
USGS aerial imagery of Bull Island
Bull Island is located in San Francisco Bay Area
Bull Island
Bull Island
Location in San Francisco Bay Area
Bull Island is located in California
Bull Island
Bull Island
Location in California
Bull Island is located in the United States
Bull Island
Bull Island
Location in the United States
Geography
Location Northern California
Coordinates 38°13′20″N 122°18′24″W / 38.22222°N 122.30667°W / 38.22222; -122.30667 (Bull Island)
Adjacent bodies of water Napa River
Highest elevation 3 ft (0.9 m)
Administration
United States
State  California
County Napa

Bull Island is a small piece of land surrounded by water in the Napa River. This river flows into San Pablo Bay, which is part of the larger San Francisco Bay in California.

The island is located in Napa County. It's an important natural area. Bull Island is managed as part of the Fagan Marsh Ecological Reserve. This reserve is right next to the Napa-Sonoma Marshes Wildlife Area.

In 1981, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) measured the island's height. Bull Island is about 3 feet (about 1 meter) above sea level. Its exact location is 38°13′20″N 122°18′24″W / 38.22222°N 122.30667°W / 38.22222; -122.30667 (Bull Island).

What is Bull Island?

Bull Island is a natural island in the Napa River. It's not very big, but it's an important part of the local environment. Islands like Bull Island are often formed by rivers. They can also be left behind as water levels change.

Where is Bull Island Located?

Bull Island is found in the northern part of California. It's specifically in Napa County. The island sits within the Napa River. This river eventually flows into San Pablo Bay. San Pablo Bay is a large body of water connected to the famous San Francisco Bay.

Island's Position in the River

The island is located upstream from San Pablo Bay. This means it's further inland along the river. It's surrounded by the river's waters. The area around it is mostly marshland and wetlands.

Protecting Nature on Bull Island

Bull Island is part of a special area called the Fagan Marsh Ecological Reserve. An ecological reserve is a place set aside to protect plants and animals. These areas help keep nature healthy.

Why are Reserves Important?

Ecological reserves like Fagan Marsh protect important habitats. Habitats are the natural homes of plants and animals. These reserves help make sure that different species can survive and thrive. They are like nature's safe zones.

Bull Island's Role in Wildlife

Because it's part of a reserve, Bull Island likely provides a home for various wildlife. This could include birds, fish, and other small creatures. The surrounding marshlands are especially important for many types of birds.

Island Facts and Features

Bull Island is a low-lying island. This means it's not very high above the water. Its elevation is only about 3 feet (1 meter). This makes it part of the unique landscape of the Napa River area.

Bull Island, USGS map CA Cuttings Wharf 289711 1949 24000
Bull Island as it appears on a 1951 USGS topographic map.

How Islands are Measured

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a science agency. They study the Earth's landscape. They measure things like island elevations. This helps us understand the land and its features.

Maps and Aerial Views

Maps, especially topographic maps, show the shape of the land. Aerial views, like those from airplanes or satellites, also help us see islands. They show how islands fit into the bigger picture of the landscape.

Napa River in Vallejo
An aerial view, looking toward the west, of the Napa River where it flows into San Pablo Bay through Vallejo. Islands visible include, from bottom of image: Mare, No. 1, Knight, Russ, No. 2, Green, Bull, Edgerly, Coon, Little, and Tubbs.
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